The Best of Malta: A Three-Day Itinerary

Orient yourself with a walking tour around UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valletta. Begin with a visit to the Baroque-style St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with an ornate interior and Caravaggio’s famous painting “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.”

Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens with views of the Grand Harbour. You can watch the cannon firing ceremony here every Monday through Saturday at noon.

Grab lunch at the family-run Rubino. Opened since 1906, it’s one of the oldest restaurants in Valletta. The smoked octopus is a classic.

Explore the historic Fort St. Elmo, which houses the National War Museum and gives insights into Malta's role in World War II.

Take a ferry across the Grand Harbour to visit the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua). These are quieter, less touristy areas full of history.

While there, head to dinner at Terrone on the tip of Vittoriosa. The Italian and Maltese cuisine is local fish-based, Sicilian clams and cannellini beans being the standouts.

Take a tour to the countryside. You can DIY it or take a guided tour (some are food- or wine-based, some visit “Game of Thrones” filming locations, and more). Here are the highlights I would recommend regardless.

Start the day in Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta. Wander the narrow, winding streets and visit St. Paul’s Cathedral. The panoramic views from the Ramparts are spectacular. The city is also known for blown-glass artworks. Watch skilled artisans and shop at the Mdina Glass Factory or shop at Ta’ Qali.

Grab a bite for lunch at a cafe in Mdina before venturing next door to Rabat. If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, however, make a reservation at De Mondion. This Michelin-starred Relais & Chateaux restaurant at the Xara Palace Hotel is unmissable. Choose a three- or four-course menu that showcases freshly handpicked local ingredients.

Afterward, explore the city of Rabat. St. Paul’s Catacombs date back to Roman times, and the Domus Romana is an ancient Roman house filled with mosaics. Stop into a family-run bakery like Falzon to try some fresh bread and pastries (like pastizzi or imqaret).

In the afternoon, head towards the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves known for their striking blue waters. Take a boat tour to explore the grotto and surrounding cliffs.

Head back to Valletta for dinner at Michelin-starred Noni. Expect a tasting menu highlighting seasonal and fresh ingredients.

Take an early Fast Ferry to Malta’s sister island, Gozo, known for its scenic beauty, quiet charm and historical sites. You can also arrange a guided tour.

Visit the famous Azure Window. It collapsed in 2017 but the area is still beautiful. Explore beautiful Dwejra Bay, home to popular diving spot the Blue Hole.

Visit the Ggantija Temples, one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. These Neolithic temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to around 3600 BC.

Spend some time relaxing by the crystal-clear waters at Xlendi Bay, perfect for a swim or a peaceful walk along the coastline.

Take the Fast Ferry back to Valletta and stop in at ION Harbour by Simon Rogan for dinner. This restaurant has two Michelin stars, but the chef’s UK restaurant holds three. The food prioritizes a farm-to-fork philosophy with a wine list over 500 bottles deep. Be sure to reserve a window-side table on the terrace.